Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) Profile
A comprehensive blood test for men starting or already on Testosterone Replacement Therapy. Covers hormones, prostate, liver, kidney, thyroid, lipids and full blood count.
Blood Tests, General Health, Male Health- Description
- Associated Conditions
- Uses of This Test
- Why This Test?
The TRT Profile is a comprehensive blood test designed specifically for men considering or already on Testosterone Replacement Therapy. It includes the full hormone panel relevant to TRT (testosterone, free testosterone, SHBG, LH, FSH, oestradiol, prolactin), plus liver and kidney function, lipids, thyroid, full blood count and PSA.
This is the recommended profile for both pre-treatment baseline assessment and ongoing TRT monitoring (typically every 3-6 months).
Low Testosterone (Hypogonadism)
Persistently low testosterone can cause fatigue, low libido, mood changes and reduced muscle mass.
TRT Baseline & Monitoring
Pre-treatment baseline and ongoing monitoring of testosterone, oestradiol, lipids and PSA.
Prostate Safety Screen
PSA monitoring is essential during TRT to identify any prostate-related changes early.
Polycythaemia (raised haematocrit)
Raised haematocrit is a common side effect of TRT and must be monitored to reduce thrombotic risk.
- Investigate suspected low testosterone
- Establish a baseline before starting TRT
- Routine TRT monitoring (every 3-6 months)
- Assess efficacy and safety of treatment
- Identify TRT-related side effects early
The TRT Profile is a comprehensive blood test designed for men considering or already on testosterone replacement therapy. It assesses hormone status, organ function, blood health and prostate markers in a single panel.
This profile is essential for:
- Men investigating low testosterone symptoms (fatigue, low libido, mood changes, loss of muscle mass)
- Men starting TRT, establishing a comprehensive baseline before treatment
- Men already on TRT, periodic monitoring of efficacy and safety
- Identifying contraindications such as raised haematocrit or prostate concerns
TRT requires regular monitoring to ensure both effectiveness and safety. This panel provides the markers most clinicians require for safe ongoing care.
What We Test
Biomarkers analysed by accredited UK laboratories
Biomarkers Tested
Hormones
- Testosterone
Total circulating testosterone, the key hormone in TRT.
- Free Testosterone (calculated)
Calculated active testosterone available to tissues.
- Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
Carrier protein that affects free testosterone availability.
- Oestradiol (E2)
Oestradiol can rise on TRT and must be monitored.
- Prolactin
Raised prolactin can suppress testosterone production.
- Luteinising Hormone (LH)
Pituitary signal to the testes; suppressed on TRT.
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
Pituitary signal to support sperm production; suppressed on TRT.
- HbA1c
Average blood glucose over the past 8-12 weeks.
Comprehensive hormonal assessment for TRT.
Lipid Profile
- Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol level.
- HDL Cholesterol
“Good” cholesterol; supports cardiovascular health.
- LDL Cholesterol
“Bad” cholesterol; raised levels are linked to atherosclerosis.
- Non-HDL Cholesterol
Sum of all non-HDL fractions.
- Triglycerides
A type of fat in the blood.
- Total Cholesterol : HDL Ratio
Useful cardiovascular ratio.
- HDL Percentage
HDL as a percentage of total cholesterol.
Cardiovascular markers important to monitor on TRT.
Liver & Kidney Function
- ALT
Liver enzyme that can rise with liver stress.
- AST
Liver enzyme involved in injury and metabolism.
- GGT
Liver enzyme sensitive to alcohol and bile flow.
- ALP
Bone and bile-flow enzyme.
- Albumin
Major liver protein; reflects nutrition and synthesis.
- Globulin
Calculated immune protein component.
- Total Protein
Total blood protein.
- Total Bilirubin
Bile pigment processed by the liver.
- Urea
Waste product cleared by the kidneys.
- Creatinine
Muscle waste product used to estimate kidney function.
- eGFR
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate; a key kidney marker.
Organ function checks to ensure safe ongoing treatment.
Full Blood Count
- Haemoglobin
Oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
- Haematocrit
Percentage of red cells in blood, must be monitored on TRT.
- Red Cell Count
Total red blood cells.
- White Cell Count
Total white blood cells.
- Platelet Count
Total platelets.
- MCV
Average size of red blood cells.
- MCH
Average haemoglobin per cell.
- MCHC
Average haemoglobin concentration in red cells.
- MPV
Average platelet size.
- Red Cell Distribution Width
Variation in red cell size.
Blood health monitoring including haematocrit (key TRT safety marker).
Thyroid
- TSH
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, pituitary thyroid signal.
- Free T4
Free T4, main circulating thyroid hormone.
Thyroid status as it can affect testosterone and metabolism.
Prostate
- PSA
Prostate Specific Antigen, prostate health marker.
Prostate marker for ongoing safety monitoring.
Home Finger-Prick Testing
Enjoy the convenience of testing from home with a simple, easy-to-use kit delivered straight to your door. Your kit includes clear instructions, sterile equipment, and a prepaid return envelope for sending your sample to the laboratory.
This option is ideal if you prefer flexibility, have a busy schedule, or want to check your health privately without visiting the clinic.
Results are processed by accredited laboratories, giving you the same clinical accuracy as an in-clinic test. Expect results within 72 hours!
Why Use This Service:
Perfect for busy schedules
Results within 72 hours
Delivery across the UK
Private & discreet
Avoid travelling to Preston
Cost effective alternative
Taking Charge Of Your Own Health Has Never Been Easier
Worried about your wellbeing?
If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, or other issues, a comprehensive blood test may be the key to discovering potential underlying health problems.
Need to monitor a health condition?
Blood tests offer essential insights into various aspects of your health, from detecting deficiencies to evaluating immune functions.
Enhancing Performance and Fitness?
Whether you’re training for a sport or keeping track of your fitness progress, a blood test serves as an excellent foundation for your performance improvement journey.
All Our Tests Include:
No GP Referral
Order directly - no waiting for appointments
Fast Results
Detailed analysis within 72 hours
Laboratory Commentary
Expert interpretation of your results included
Secure & Confidential
Discreet service and consultations
Frequently Asked Questions
- Qualified Pharmacists
- Flexible Appointments
- Top Customer Service
Are weekend appointments available?
Yes. We are open 10am to 6pm on Saturdays, with blood test appointments available by arrangement, so you can fit your test around work and family.
Are same-day appointments available?
Often, yes. If you need a blood test today, call us on 01772 439054 and we will do our best to fit you in the same day.
What if my results need explaining?
Every result comes with a doctor’s commentary written in plain English, so you understand what your numbers mean. If anything is unclear or needs a follow-up, our pharmacists are happy to talk you through it.
How much do private blood tests cost in Preston?
Prices start at £39 for a single-marker test such as our Cholesterol/Lipid Profile and rise to £349 for the Allergy Complete 295-allergen panel. Most comprehensive health panels cost between £100 and £180, and every result includes a doctor’s commentary at no extra charge.
What is the difference between a home finger-prick test and a clinic appointment?
Both use exactly the same accredited UK laboratories. A home kit suits busy schedules and simpler tests, while a clinic appointment with our phlebotomist is better for comprehensive panels, larger samples, or anyone who would rather not take their own sample. If you are not sure which to choose, call us and we will point you to the right option.
Where is the clinic?
You will find us at 54 Berry Lane, Longridge, Preston PR3 3JP, with free parking on site. We see patients from Longridge, Preston, the Ribble Valley and across Lancashire.
What if I’m on the pill, coil or HRT?
Just tell us at booking. Hormonal contraception and HRT affect some results, and our commentary will interpret your numbers in that context so they actually make sense for you.
What can an AMH test tell me?
AMH is the single best blood marker of your ovarian reserve, a useful indicator if you’re planning for a family, considering egg freezing, or simply want to understand your fertility. It can be tested on any day of your cycle.
When in my cycle should I take a hormone test?
It depends on the test. AMH can be done on any day. Baseline hormones (FSH, LH, oestradiol) are usually taken on days 2 to 5. Progesterone is taken around day 21 (about 7 days before your next period is due). We’ll guide you on timing when you book.
When is the best time to take a testosterone test?
Ideally in the morning (before 11am), when testosterone is at its natural peak. We’ll guide you on timing when you book.
What’s the best test if I think my testosterone is low?
Testosterone Plus, which measures total and free testosterone plus SHBG and the Free Androgen Index. Total testosterone alone misses many men whose symptoms come from low free testosterone, so getting the complete picture matters.
Do I need an allergy test or intolerance test?
If your reactions are fast (hives, swelling, wheezing), the 295-allergen IgE panel is the right starting point. If they’re slower and gut-based (bloating, cramps, fatigue), a targeted intolerance or coeliac profile may suit you better. Not sure? Call us and we’ll guide you.
What does the 295-allergen panel test for?
Foods, pollens, animals, dust mites, moulds, insect venoms, drugs and contact allergens (all from a single blood sample). The full allergen list can be found on the product page.
How accurate are home finger-prick tests compared to clinic tests?
Our home finger-prick tests use the same accredited laboratories as our clinic tests. While clinic tests allow for more comprehensive panels, home tests are highly accurate for the parameters they measure.
Do I need a GP referral for a blood test?
No, you don’t need a GP referral. You can book directly with us for any blood test. We are a private clinic offering direct access to comprehensive blood testing.
How old do I have to be to have a blood test?
We will only draw blood from those aged 16 and above due to legal requirements.
How long does it take for the blood test results to come?
If you have used our clinic to complete a blood test, we send off all samples the same day to the lab to be processed. If you have used a home test kit, then once your sample has been sent off the lab will analyse your sample. Results are usually received within 72 hours.
How do I perform the home finger-prick test?
Your home blood test kit will contain easy-to-follow instructions on how to take your own finger blood sample. If you have any concerns or questions prior to using the kit, please contact our phlebotomists who will be happy to assist.
How do I prepare for a blood test?
There is no preparation required prior to taking any of the blood tests. Please simply remember to stay hydrated prior to your appointment. This is to help your veins dilate better to enable a quick and efficient blood sample to be taken and reduce the risks of feeling faint following your blood test.
Please inform the phlebotomist before your test if you are currently taking any blood thinning medication.
Should I fast before my blood test?
Fasting is not required for most blood tests. However, if your profile includes cholesterol tests and you’ve previously had high levels, consider fasting for 8 hours beforehand. While not essential, fasting can provide more accurate results.
Note: Fasting means abstaining from any food and drink, except for water.